TN Governor, film personalities pay homage to filmmaker Balachander

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Governor K Rosaiah, music maestro A R Rahman among others, mourned the death of legendary filmmaker K Balachander, who passed away here yesterday."K B, as he is affectionately called, has been instrumental in carving many a great artists and doyen of Tamil Film Industry. His films are a class by themselves. His death is an irreparable loss to the Indian Cinema, particularly to Tamil Film Industry," Rosaiah said in his condolence message.[caption id="attachment_2013673" align="alignleft" width="380"] Courtesy: ibn live[/caption]"Dear KB sir, your vision and creations have inspired three generations. Really grateful for introducing me through your company Kavithaalaya in (Mani Ratnam's) 'Roja'. RIP!," said Oscar-winning composer A R Rahman.'Roja' was produced by Balachander. Streams of people, including film personalities, fans and political leaders lined up to pay their last respects to Balachander.DMDK Chief Vijayakant, Latha Rajinikanth wife of superstar Ranjinikanth, whom Balachander mentored, also paid homage to the late filmmaker. The Tamil film industry in a statement announced cancelling film shoots scheduled for today as a mark of respect for Balachander, 84, who died after a prolonged illness.PTI